JawSurgery

For skeletal discrepancies beyond orthodontic treatment

Jaw surgery (orthognathic surgery) can be a necessary treatment for those with a skeletal discrepancy outside of the boundaries of conventional orthodontics.

Some patients may require jaw surgery in order to correct the position of the teeth and provide a functioning bite, the supporting bones of the jaws must be in the correct position.

If this is not the case, orthodontics alone will not correct the bite. Surgery will be required to move the jaws into the proper position so the teeth then meet correctly.

Patients seek jaw surgery for a number of reasons, including;

Difficulty in eating and speaking
Disproportionately large upper or lower jaws
Long face
Facial asymmetries & Chin abnormalities.

Thankfully, with elleven Dental Wellness, this doesn’t have to be a complex operation. We’re friends with some excellent surgeons, and are used to working in close collaboration to get the best results for our shared patients.

Ask to see Dr Shivani Patel if you feel you may need jaw surgery as she is trained as an orthodontist to consultant level and has a lot of experience in these multidisciplinary cases.

At elleven Dental Wellness, we always work in the best interest of the patient. It is important therefore, to understand that with Jaw Surgery you may experience some side effects; You will have some swelling and bruising after the operation. This will rapidly begin to subside over the first 2-3 weeks. For operations on the lower jaw it is fairly common to have some numbness of the lower lip. In a very small number of cases a residual area of numbness may remain. This does not affect the movement of the lips, only the feeling in it, in a similar way to an injection at the dentist. After the operation you will have to take it easy for 2-3 weeks. You should therefore expect to be off college/work for at least that length of time.

Frequently Asked Questions

If I need Jaw Surgery, why do I also require Orthodontics?

If the jaws are to be moved into the correct position, it is important your teeth are moved so that they meet properly after surgery.

What type of brace will I need to wear?

Fixed braces are used prior to jaw surgery because they permit the most accurate positioning of the teeth prior to the operation.

Are the braces removed just before the operation?

No, they remain in position during and after the operation for a number of months. During the operation they help the oral surgeon position the jaws correctly. After the operation they help the orthodontist fine tune the bite with elastics.

How will the operation be done?

The majority of operations will be done from inside your mouth.

How long will I be in hospital?

This varies between 2-5 days.

How long will the overall treatment take?

It usually takes 2- 2 1/2 years, but will vary on how severe your case is. Failed or cancelled appointments or repeated breakages will add to the overall treatment time.

Before & After Gallery

Call Our Team to Discuss Today

Dr. Shivani Patel

Orthodontic Specialist

GDC: 78184

Dr. Anthony Lam

Orthodontic Specialist

GDC: 80300

Dr. Jill Daus

Orthodontic Specialist

GDC: 208352

Dr. Sarah Richardson

Orthodontic Specialist

GDC: 64920

Farah Anad

Orthodontic Therapist

GDC: 163729

“Never before have I actually looked forward to the dentist, however, elleven Dental provide such a calming, relaxed and professional environment and service, every visit is a true pleasure, which ends with brilliant results.”